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(FMC), independent U.S. government agency that regulates U.S. foreign and domestic waterborne commerce as specified under Shipping Act of 1916; makes sure that international trade with U.S. is open to all shippers, carriers, and persons of all nations on fair and equal terms; polices for and protects against unauthorized activity and piracy in waterborne commerce; headquarters in Washington, D.C.; from 1916 to 1960 duties were performed by Federal Maritime Board until FMC was established in 1961; consists of 5 commissioners, one of which is chairman, appointed by president with advice and consent of Senate; FMC assisted by large staff of administrative law judges and others; district offices in Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, Puerto Rico, and San Francisco.

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